My local Guild has trouble filling classes at their teaching events. It's a real shame because it means our members are missing some absolutely fabulous learning opportunities. Many of our out of town guest teachers are one time appearances only. Unless you are going to Vogue Live or Stitches and spending the big bucks, those of us here in Toronto won't get a second chance at a class with these teachers. Some of our local teachers who currently teach at both of those events no longer teach locally for the same reason.
Some time ago I did a little independent survey of knitters and asked if they take classes because of the topic or because of the teacher. Most knitters initially told me it was due to the teacher. However, the really interesting part of the discussion was the question, who did they learn the most from? The answer was frequently not the Rock Stars.
The YarnOver SleepOver Retreat that I am part of was originated because we wanted to create our own teaching opportunities. Here's a quote from one of our attendees, “I thought I knew a lot about knitting until I came here, and learned things I could not have even imagined.”
I know none of us qualify as Rock Stars.
A member of my Guild who moved away, posted my name and that of Fiona Ellis in a thread for her new Guild which asked for suggestions for teachers for classes. When I was told about it, I read through the thread. Post # 26 is very interesting! I'll ask the question again, are you missing out by only focusing on Rock Star knitters?
